Texas livestock producers must be vigilant following confirmed detection of New World screwworm in Texas

The following statement may be attributed to Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening following today’s confirmed detection of New World screwworm in Texas. 

“The confirmed detection of New World screwworm in Texas marks a new chapter for our state.

“Texas livestock producers and all Texans must now be vigilant in their efforts to manage and combat the invasive pest. 

“Texas Farm Bureau is confident in the federal and state protocols established to again eradicate New World screwworm from Texas as was accomplished decades ago.

“It is important for consumers to know there are no impacts to food safety from the presence of New World screwworm.”

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Broadcast quality audio of the statement can be downloaded here. 

New World screwworm Background

What USDA is doing
USDA and its partners are working to prevent New World screwworm from re-establishing in the United States through several efforts, including:

• Releasing sterile screwworm flies to suppress wild populations
• Expanding sterile fly dispersal operations along the U.S.-Mexico border, including releases extending approximately 50 miles into Texas
• Building a domestic sterile fly production facility at Moore Air Base in Edinburg to strengthen long-term response capabilities

The sterile insect technique involves releasing sterile male screwworm flies into affected areas. When wild females mate with sterile males, no viable offspring are produced, helping reduce and eventually eliminate screwworm populations.

Texas Farm Bureau appreciates USDA’s efforts and its steadfast commitment to combat this invasive pest.  

Texas Farm Bureau's role
Texas Farm Bureau has worked closely with USDA, the Texas Animal Health Commission, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and industry partners to raise awareness, provide member education, and advocate for strong prevention and response efforts, including support for domestic sterile fly production capacity.